What About Our Electronics?
What’s safe to take to France when we move, and what isn’t?
Originally published on Medium on 18 February 2024
When we first decided to move to France, I assumed we’d have to sell or give away everything that we plug in and then buy all new appliances and electronics once we got there.
Why? Because it’s not just a matter of using an adapter, though those are handy for things you take when you vacation. Because the US and Europe run electricity in different voltages, the risk of fire is real if you just plug something in and assume it’ll be fine.
But it turns out it’s a little more complicated than all or nothing (which is great for our budget). Here’s what I’ve learned:
I hope it goes without saying that major appliances like washers and dryers, refrigerators, and even vacuum cleaners (see the exception below) are not worth shipping.
Things that use electricity to heat or cook — from hair dryers and curling irons to toasters — don’t take them. (Unless you specifically bought a dual voltage appliance, which are more expensive and tend to be marketed to international travelers.)
Electric shavers and toothbrushes also will need to be replaced. They’re almost never dual voltage. Put them up for sale on Facebook Marketplace and then go shop at the local Darty when you get to your new home.
We have several Tiffany-style lamps that we’ll get rewired once our shipping container gets to our new home. However, f your lamps aren’t special, sell them and buy new ones.
Televisions less than ten years old are almost always dual voltage, so you can plug them in safely with an adapter! (Just double check the instruction manual that came with our TV. There may or may not be a switch to flip on your device.)
Things that charge — from laptops to phones to our beloved Dyson stick vacuum!— are almost always dual voltage these days. BUT don’t use them with an adapter. They’ll need a new charger, easily and inexpensively purchased online in your new home.
So, yes, we’ll be buying several new things, but not nearly as many as I’d feared. It’s always nice when things turn out to be a little easier than expected. On we go!